Council adopts code to regulate massage businesses and target illicit operations

MILTON, Wash. — The Milton City Council on Tuesday adopted Ordinance 2121-25, adding Chapter 5.1 to the Milton Municipal Code to regulate massage practitioners and provide the city additional enforcement tools aimed at illicit massage businesses.

Chief Hernandez told the council the measure builds on research and discussions with other jurisdictions, including Lakewood and Fife, and with the city attorney. He said the intent is to address unlawful activity the city has observed in some massage businesses: alleged unlicensed practitioners, drugs and alcohol on the premises, unaccompanied minors, prostitution, disrobing and unsupervised premises. Hernandez said the language mirrors approaches used by neighboring jurisdictions and would give Milton staff the authority to inspect and, when necessary, close noncompliant establishments.

Mayor Pro Tem Whitaker moved adoption; Council member Strader seconded. Council members described the ordinance as an important enforcement tool to help "drive out these types of illegal activities in the city of Milton." The motion passed by voice vote, 6-0.

Discussion versus decision: Council agreed the ordinance expands enforcement options; the action adopted the new code chapter and no amendments were recorded at the meeting.

Context: Staff said the city consulted Lakewood and Fife, which had handled similar problems, and worked with the city attorney and regional partners to craft the ordinance language.

Next steps: With the ordinance in place, staff said it will use the new code provisions to inspect suspected noncompliant massage businesses and pursue closure or other enforcement where violations are found.